Optical And Deflector Modules for Reusable Ureteroscopes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Flexible ureteroscopes, particularly single-use models, face high disposal costs despite being in good condition due to mechanical damage risks and infection prevention needs, while reusable scopes incur repair costs for difficult procedures.
Innovation Solution
A modular scope system comprising an optical module, deflector module, channel module, and sheath module, allowing for assembly and replacement of components to suit specific procedures, with each module having distinct functions for visualization, deflection, and protection, respectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If single-use flexible ureteroscopes are used to prevent infection, then infection prevention is improved, but disposal costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ureteroscope is divided into separate modules (optical module, deflector module, channel module, sheath module) that can be independently replaced. This allows the expensive optical components to be reused while replacing only the disposable sheath and channel modules, reducing disposal costs while maintaining infection prevention benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a system where certain modules (sheath, channel) are designed for single-use and discarded, while valuable modules (optical, deflector) are recovered and reused. This selective discarding and recovery approach optimizes the balance between infection control and cost management
2Loss of substance
If reusable ureteroscopes are used to reduce disposal costs, then disposal costs decrease, but repair costs increase for difficult procedures
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the ureteroscope into modular components, the patent enables targeted repair or replacement of only the affected module rather than the entire device, significantly reducing repair costs and complexity for reusable scopes
Solution Approach 2:
The modular design allows damaged modules to be discarded and replaced while recovering and reusing the functional modules, converting complex repair problems into simpler module replacement operations
3Adaptability or versatility
If modular components are used to enable selective replacement, then cost-effectiveness is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal coupling mechanisms and standardized interfaces across all modules, allowing the same connection system to handle different module types. This universality simplifies the assembly process despite the multi-module complexity, as the same principles apply to each connection
Data Source
Figure 1
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AI summary
A system for modularly assembling a scope device includes an optical module which has an optical housing and a longitudinal member extending distally therefrom. A distal end of the member includes a camera for visualizing a target area, electric wires and a light source extending from the camera to the optical housing. The system also includes a deflector module coupleable with the optical module. The deflector module includes a deflector housing and a deflector shaft extending distally therefrom. The shaft includes a first channel sized, shaped and configured to receive the member therein and a deflectable portion extending along a distal portion of the shaft. The deflector housing includes an actuator for deflecting the deflectable portion, the optical and deflector housings including corresponding connecting elements to engage one another when the member is inserted through the first channel and the deflector and optical housings are coupled.